By: Terry Martin
The Saints were back in action for the first time in 81 days, as they took on the Fort McMurray Oil Barons.
The 1st period was a dominate performance by the Saints, jumping out to a 2-0 lead just 5 minutes into the game. Jayden Davis notched the first one with a quick one-timer in front of the Oil Barons goalie, Fradette. Liam Watkins was then left alone in the slot and scored his first AJHL goal to put the Saints up by 2. Jacob Rochford would then find the net with a double deflection for a 3-0 lead late in the period. The final shots in the period were 15-2 for the Saints.
The 2nd period saw the Oil Barons come out of the gate with a furious pace, outshooting the Saints 7-2 in the first 10 minutes of play. Tyler Palmer stayed cool and calm in net, making timely saves and preserving the lead for the team. Tristan Kimmen went on a breakaway late in the period to open the scoring for the Oil Barons shorthanded. The Saints still led 3-1 at the end of the period, they also still led in shots 20-12.
The 3rd period was rough and tough, hinting at an exciting March. The Oil Barons cut the lead to one goal with a power play goal early in the period. The Saints and Oil Barons kept up the pace and had chances at each end. The Oil Barons would eventually tie the game late with less than 2 minutes to go. The Oil Barons led the game in shots at the end of the 3rd period, 28-26.
Overtime was very eventful, both goalies coming up big with huge saves sending the game to a shootout! Gamache and Hodge both scored in the second round to send the shootout to sudden death. Hampton went first, sending the puck upstairs to take the lead, Palmer then shut the door to get the win for the Saints! The final shots were 31-31. Both teams are at it again tomorrow in Fort McMurray at 7:30 pm.
You can catch all the action on the Saints Radio Network (mixlr.com/sprucegrovesaints) starting at 7:15pm live from Fort McMurray.